Togo to Aid Nigerian Navy’s Fight against Piracy

The Ambassador of Republic of Togo to Nigeria, Colonel Addo Maman Tchalare has pledged the commitment of his country to assist Nigeria’s crackdown on insurgents. The Ambassador made the assertion while on a courtesy visit to the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Dele Joseph Ezeoba at the Naval Headquarters, Abuja recently.

Col. Tchalare said over the years, his country and Nigeria have strengthened their diplomatic ties which enabled them contribute immensely to sub-regional, regional and global security as founding members of ECOWAS. The Ambassador reiterated that his country will do everything to assist a brotherly nation like Nigeria to overcome her current security challenges, stating that without the atmosphere of peace and stability, the region cannot attract investors.

He also thanked the Nigerian armed forces for their support to the Togolese military through scholarship which enhanced the capability of Togolese military officers who are trained at the Nigerian Defense Academy, Armed Forces Command and Staff College Jaji and the prestigious National Defense College Abuja.

In his response, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Dele Joseph Ezeoba said the visit of the Togolese Ambassador has reinforced the need to partner in addressing insecurity in the sub-region. The CNS recalled the partnership between the Republic of Togo and Nigerian Navy which culminated in an operation code named “OPS PROSPERITY” aimed at addressing the challenges in maritime environment such as piracy and sea robbery.

Vice Admiral Ezeoba maintained that, though Nigeria is going through trying periods in respect of insurgency in some parts of the country, he is optimistic that the current challenges would be surmounted. He thanked the Republic of Togo for their show of brotherly commitment and solidarity.

www.navy.mil.ng